Miss Merrille, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

"Miss Merrille," a 1890 lithograph by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company, is a prime example of a trade card. This small-format print featuring an actress, likely used to promote Sweet Caporal cigarettes, exemplifies a popular marketing strategy of the era. The image showcases a woman in a theatrical pose, with her dress billowing around her, creating a dynamic and engaging visual. These cards were widely distributed and collected, making them an important part of popular culture and advertising history. The piece is currently part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY.